Homemade Chicken Fried Rice

Name: Homemade Chicken Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, chilled; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 3 green onions, sliced; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs, lightly beaten

Highlighted under: Everyday Cooking

I love whipping up a quick batch of homemade chicken fried rice when I’m craving comfort food. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, and the flavors meld beautifully as everything stir-fries together. With tender chicken, a mix of colorful veggies, and a hint of soy sauce, this dish is flavorful and satisfying. Plus, making it from scratch means I can tweak the ingredients according to my taste. It’s versatility at its best, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:21:36.417Z

When I first tried making chicken fried rice at home, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy and delicious it turned out. The key is to use cold, day-old rice because it prevents the grains from becoming mushy during stir-frying. I also learned that cooking the chicken until it's golden brown adds a nice depth of flavor, which I absolutely love.

One tip I swear by is to add the soy sauce gradually while cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly on the chicken for that unique umami taste. This method ensures that each bite is packed with flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. It's become a favorite in my home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and veggies for a complete meal
Customizable with your favorite ingredients or leftovers
Quick to make in just 25 minutes from start to finish

      

Mastering the Stir-Fry Technique

The key to achieving that iconic restaurant-style fried rice lies in mastering the stir-fry technique. Use a large skillet or wok to allow for even cooking and ample space for tossing the ingredients. Make sure your pan is adequately preheated—medium-high heat is perfect. This helps to sear the chicken quickly and locks in moisture, resulting in tender pieces. Keep everything moving to avoid burning, and don’t be afraid to crank up the heat for a more vibrant flavor.

Timing is also crucial. When adding the mixed vegetables, aim for a vibrant color and slight crunch, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also retains nutrients. If you're using fresh vegetables, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are perfectly tender, yet still crisp. Remember that the longer you cook them, the less vibrant and crunchy they will become.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

One of the best aspects of this chicken fried rice recipe is its versatility. If you have other proteins on hand, such as shrimp or tofu, they can easily replace the chicken. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times, as shrimp cooks in just 2-3 minutes, while tofu should be sautéed until golden. Additionally, leftover rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor—just add it towards the end so it warms through without cooking further.

The rice you choose also plays a significant role in texture and flavor. While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrance, other long-grain or medium-grain rice varieties can work too. Just ensure they are chilled to avoid clumping together during stir-frying. For a different flavor profile, try brown rice for added nuttiness or even cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative. In this case, reduce the cooking time slightly since cauliflower cooks much faster!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Chicken Fried Rice

2 cups cooked jasmine rice, chilled
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
3 green onions, sliced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, lightly beaten

Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious chicken fried rice:

Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, followed by the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.

Combine Rice and Chicken

Add the chilled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir to combine with the vegetables. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.

Add Sauce and Eggs

Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice mixture, stirring to distribute evenly. Push the rice to one side of the skillet and add the lightly beaten eggs to the other side. Scramble the eggs until just set, then mix them into the rice.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the sliced green onions, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serve your homemade chicken fried rice immediately for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a dash of chili sauce while cooking.

Make-Ahead Tips

Chicken fried rice is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the cooked rice a day in advance; just cool it completely before refrigerating to prevent it from becoming mushy. Also, feel free to pre-cook and chop the chicken and veggies so they're ready to go when you decide to cook. Storing everything separately in airtight containers keeps them fresh for up to three days, making weeknight cooking a breeze.

If you plan to make a larger batch, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. Just ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. Alternatively, you may want to cook in batches. This will help maintain optimal heat and ensure all ingredients are properly cooked and evenly mixed.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your homemade chicken fried rice, serve it with a side of pickled vegetables or Asian-style slaw for a refreshing contrast. A drizzle of chili oil or topping with sesame seeds can add a nice crunch and additional flavor. For fun, consider serving it in pineapple halves or cabbage wraps for an interactive dining experience.

Pairing this dish with a light soup, such as miso or egg drop, brings balance to the meal, making it feel wholesome and complete. A well-chilled beverage, like green tea or a light beer, complements the savory notes of the fried rice beautifully, rounding off a delightful meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice?

Yes! In fact, day-old rice is ideal as it prevents the dish from becoming soggy.

→ What other proteins can I use?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, pork, or tofu to suit your preference.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and use tofu or keep it loaded with vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet before serving.